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The Official Rube Goldberg Machine Contest®

About the RGMC®

The Rube Goldberg Machine Contest® (RGMC) is a challenge of creativity, ingenuity, and teamwork all rolled into one! The ultimate problem-based-learning STEM competition that pits teams against each other to create a whimsical Rube Goldberg Machine built from everyday objects that solves a common, simple task in the most ridiculous way possible.

Join the RGMC®

How to Participate

  1. FORM A TEAM: 1 to 15 members per team (plus one designated Coach).
  2. REGISTER: All teams will be assigned a Regional Host location once registered.
  3. DESIGN & BUILD: See the rulebook for specifications.
  4. COMPETE AT A REGIONAL CONTEST: None nearby? Then Host Your Own!
  5. MOVE ONTO THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP: ALL teams who compete at ANY Regional event are allowed to attend the WC-RGMC®

Current USA Host Locations:

Current International Host Locations:

2026 World Championship RGMC® Information

For information on how to host a Regional qualifier, visit our hosting page.

Scoring Criteria

Teams are scored by a panel of Judges and Referees. Judges score subjectively (based on personal opinions) while Referees score objectively (based on facts), with the points averaged & tallied to determine a winner. But be careful - Penalties do exist & should be avoided!

Rube Goldberg Alumni: Where Are You Now?

Reconnecting with past inventors, builders, and dreamers of the Rube Goldberg Machine Contest. If you've ever participated in the RGMC®, we want to hear from you! Fill out the survey & stay connected!

Copyright Notice and Legal Disclaimer: The 2026 Rube Goldberg Machine Contest® rulebook, including all rules, regulations, as well as the official 2026 annual task, is protected under copyright law, with all rights reserved. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or duplication of the rulebook, annual task, or its contents is strictly prohibited and WILL be subject to legal action.

Past Winners & Inspiration

Thank you to our partners/sponsors!